I'm considering getting a hybrid bike as an alternative to my recumbent. Due to the recumbent's length (7.5 feet), I cannot take it on TriMet buses or MAX. I must also disassemble it somewhat to get in the back of my pickup. So I'm considering an upright bike that will be easier to transport.

I need ride in a position where I am not leaning very far forward in order to prevent a pinched nerve in my spine, so drops are out for me. A hybrid looks to offer the upright position that I need, and would be a decent road bike with light off-road capabilities. My web search has led me to the Trek 7500 - anyone out there with this bike? What do you think of it? Does anyone have recommendations on other brands/models? I would like to keep the price point below $1000, while still getting decent components.

It's mostly stock, but I opted to swap out the caliper brakes for discs (it's disc ready), added lights, some of those ergonomic handlebar grips, a rack, and fenders. I'm a clydsdale, so I had to replace the rear wheel too.

After all was said and done, it was about $830.00 (plus cost of lights).

Of course test riding whatever you're considering at an LBS will be key. One other thing to consider is that several bike shops in Portland rent hybrid bikes, so you could try different models for an extended period of time if you want.

I don't want all of my bikes to be 'bent. The rider, of course, is totally bent.

Still leaning towards the Trek 7500. I'll be stopping by the downtown Bike Gallery this afternoon to take a closer look. Went to the SE Division shop yesterday, they didn't have the 7500 there, but they said the downtown shop had one in the 20" frame, which should be the right size for me.